Just Hours After Release, Former Eagles WR Britain Covey Arrested in Philly for Public Intoxication — But What the Eagles Did Next Stunned Fans
Philadelphia, PA – In a stunning turn of events, former Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver and return specialist Britain Covey was arrested for public intoxication just hours after being released by the team following the 2024 season. But what happened next has left the NFL world reeling: instead of distancing themselves, the Eagles organization chose to rally behind him with full support.
According to the Philadelphia Police Department, Covey, 28, was taken into custody around 10:00 p.m. on November 6, 2025, in the Old City district. Witnesses reported seeing the former punt return star visibly impaired, shouting incoherently, and briefly disrupting traffic near a popular bar. Officers responded to a call from venue security and arrested Covey on charges of public intoxication — a summary offense in Pennsylvania punishable by a fine of up to $300 and possible brief detention. No violence, property damage, or DUI was involved.
The arrest came mere hours after the Eagles officially declined to tender Covey as a restricted free agent, allowing him to become an unrestricted free agent and effectively ending his three-year tenure with the franchise. Covey had been a fan favorite in 2023, leading the NFL in punt return yards (417) with a 14.4-yard average, but injuries limited him to just 5 games in 2024, paving the way for younger players like Cooper DeJean to take over return duties.
Eagles’ Shocking Response: Support, Not Silence
While many expected radio silence from the team — standard protocol in such situations — head coach Nick Sirianni held an impromptu midnight press conference outside the NovaCare Complex, delivering a powerful message of compassion:
“We’re aware of the situation involving him, and our priority right now is his well-being. He’s always been a respected member of this team and a great teammate. We’re not here to judge him — we’re here to help him. The organization has already reached out to provide legal and emotional support.”
Sources confirm the Eagles immediately dispatched legal counsel to the police station to assist with processing and have scheduled crisis counseling sessions for Covey. Team owner Jeffrey Lurie reportedly personally called Covey’s family to offer ongoing support, emphasizing that “once an Eagle, always an Eagle.”
The move has been hailed as a rare display of humanity in professional sports. ESPN’s Adam Schefter tweeted:
“In an era where teams cut ties at the first sign of trouble, the Eagles just rewrote the playbook on player care. This is leadership.”
A Fall from Grace — Or a Cry for Help?
Covey’s rapid descent from Super Bowl champion (as a member of the Eagles’ LIX-winning roster) to free agent to arrestee has sparked concern about the mental toll of the NFL lifestyle. Despite his on-field success, Covey was never a high-paid star — earning just over $2.5 million in his career — and battled
